105 Must See Films: Moonstruck (1987)

Starring: Cher, Nicolas Cage, Danny Aiello, Olympia Dukakis

Director: Norman Jewison

Unusual romantic comedy starring Cher as widowed accountant Loretta, who is looking for stability, not romance, in her new husband to be Johnny (Danny Aiello). But nothing goes according to plan, when she must personally invite her fiancee’s estranged brother Ronny (Nicolas Cage) to the wedding, and finds herself falling in love.

From start to finish, the tone of this film is deliciously odd. Loretta comes from a Italian American family, and a close knit community, so the film is not just about her but her entire family. They’re constantly sitting at meals, poking in each other business, and getting up to mischief. Loretta’s grandfather is a grump who lives upstairs with his pack of dogs. Her Aunt and Uncle are falling in love all over again. And Lorettas mother, Rose (Olympia Dukakis) is sarcastic and warm, giving a whole new dimension to the film as she tries to figure out her relationship with her philandering husband.

But Cher and Cage… oh my God. Cage is so young and weedy in this film, and launches into teen-angst-like speeches, and has lost the will to live since losing his hand. He’s hilarious. And Cher is warmth, beauty and stubbornness. They’re such an odd match that totally works as the core of the film, bringing out the best in each other.

Why Is It A Must See: Personally, the chance to see Cage as a monobrowed youngster, hamming it up is reason enough. But the film is deserving of it’s multiple Oscar wins, because at heart, it’s a constantly surprising film. People never do or say what you expect, they’re direct, they’re nosy, they’re not romantic at all, but they’re pasionate about everything. And Cher gives an excellent performance as delightfully conflicted Loretta. I couldn’t take my eyes off her.

See It If: You have a heart. This film is wonderful.